Nicky Cheese

I can’t say I’ve ever been a part of a really meaningful protest. You know, one that actually makes a difference.

That all changed a couple weeks ago at the “Save Lincoln Square” rally. Its value was confirmed when, last week, affected business owners received word that Alderman Schulter was backing down considerably — three-fourths of the parcels in question came off the list. The “involuntary acquisition” list. Alright!

As Richard mentioned last week, it’s not a complete victory. But hey, I’m pumped! We’re pumped! Let’s recognize the power of grassroots activism. By calling out Alderman Schulter and the powers-that-be, by revealing the unjust government seizure for what it was, by causing a big ruckus and drawing the attention of local media and bloggers, a community overcame authoritarian compulsion and defended what the government had no right to offend — their property.

It’s empowering. And we’re not going to stop. We’re not going to back down. Because, let’s face it, that’s what they want us to do. To sit back and passively take it without question, without making a stir.

A similar situation plays out in Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged, which — if you weren’t aware — celebrated its 50th anniversary in October. At the risk of losing your attention span, I’ve quoted it below:

“Mr. Rearden,” said the man, “the government needs your Metal. You have to sell it to us, because surely you realize that the government’s plans cannot be held up by the matter of your consent.”

“A sale,” said Rearden, slowly, “requires the seller’s consent.” He got up and walked to the window. “I’ll tell you what you can do.” He pointed to the siding where ingots of Rearden Metal were being loaded onto freight cars. “There’s Rearden Metal. Drive down there with your trucks — like any other looter, but without his risk, because I won’t shoot you, as you know I can’t — take as much of the Metal as you wish and go. Don’t try to send me payment — I won’t accept it. Don’t print out a check to me. It won’t be cashed. If you want that Metal, you have the guns to seize it. Go ahead.”

“Good God, Mr. Rearden, what would the public think!”

It was an instinctive, involuntary cry. The muscles of Rearden’s face moved briefly in a soundless laughter. Both of them had understood the implications of that cry. Rearden said evenly, in the grave, unrestrained tone of finality, “You need my help to make it look like a sale — like a safe, just, moral transaction. I will not help you.”

The man did not argue. He rose to leave. He said only, “You will regret the stand you’ve taken, Mr. Rearden.”

“I don’t think so,” said Rearden.

He knew that the incident was not ended. He knew also that the secrecy of Project X was not the main reason why these people feared to make the issue public. He knew that he felt an odd, joyous, light-hearted self-confidence. He knew that these were the right steps down the trail he had glimpsed.

The City of Chicago will continue its attempt to acquire the remaining properties on the “involuntary acquisition” list. And it will continue to try and use eminent domain in the future, on other properties in other neighborhoods. As it turns out, much sooner than later.

In the words of my hero Andrew WK, “Never let down”.